ALGIERS – Algeria has unveiled a large-scale afforestation project aimed at planting 400 million trees over the next decade. Minister of State, Minister of Hydrocarbons and Mines, Mohamed Arkab, announced the initiative, spearheaded by Sonatrach, as part of the nation’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint.
Speaking at the opening of the national study conference on quality of life, held at the Mufdi Zakaria Palace of Culture, Arkab detailed that the tree planting effort will cover approximately 520,000 hectares across various regions of the country. This ambitious plan is expected to significantly contribute to social development, supporting over 10,000 farmers and creating an estimated 24,000 direct and indirect jobs.
In addition to the tree planting initiative, Minister Arkab highlighted ongoing efforts to bolster national water security. He announced plans for the construction of six new seawater desalination plants with a combined production capacity of 1.8 million cubic meters per day. These facilities will supply drinking water to residents in several inland provinces, increasing the share of desalinated water to 60% of the total drinking water supply by 2030.
Arkab further stated that through collaboration with the Ministry of Water Resources, nineteen seawater desalination plants are already operational along the coast, with a total capacity of 3.85 million cubic meters per day. Five new plants have come online this year, covering 42% of the population’s drinking water needs.
The Minister of State also emphasized efforts to reduce gas flaring to below 1% and establish a national mechanism for monitoring and reducing methane emissions, in partnership with national and international stakeholders. He noted the adoption of environmentally friendly fuels has eliminated lead emissions from vehicles, improving fuel quality and reducing overall emissions. Furthermore, Algeria is promoting a circular economy model through waste valorization, metal recovery and recycling within the framework of urban mining, and the development of used oil recycling for biofuel production.
Regarding the mining sector, Arkab affirmed its role in diversifying the national economy away from hydrocarbons and reducing import costs by providing essential materials for housing and public works programs. He added that modern technologies are being implemented to minimize dust emissions and protect the health of residents in mining areas.
The Minister also highlighted the progress made in digital transformation within the sector.
